Enhancing In-Car Entertainment: Google Cast Support Comes to Android Automotive OS
Google is set to enhance the in-car experience by integrating Cast support into its Android Automotive OS. This feature will allow passengers to stream their favorite entertainment directly to the vehicle’s main display. Alongside this, a suite of new applications and games will become accessible through the car’s built-in software platform.
The technology, which has its roots in the well-known Chromecast, will be incorporated into vehicles equipped with Android Automotive OS as a part of the upcoming Android 15 update. This integration is expected to roll out to compatible cars later this year.
Among the first to adopt this new feature will be the stylish line of Rivian electric vehicles. Google has yet to announce which other manufacturers and models will follow suit.
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Notably, Google is also expanding the range of streaming applications available in vehicles with Google Built-In. Fans of the enduring Angry Birds game will be pleased to find it among the new offerings, in addition to Max and Peacock streaming services.
Currently, there are approximately 200 million vehicles on the road featuring some variant of Android Auto, whether wired or wireless, catering to both drivers and passengers. The latest updates, however, are specifically targeted at the 40 models that come with Android Automotive with Google Built-In, such as the Nissan Rogue, Renault R5, Acura ZDX, and Ford Explorer. These models do not require a smartphone connection to access the new features.
Google is also focusing on streamlining the process for developers to bring their apps into the automotive space. The aim is to minimize the additional work required for developers to make their applications available within the automotive environment.
In a recent blog post, Google outlined its approach to assisting developers. The company will proactively review mobile apps that are already adaptive and compatible with large screens to ensure they meet safety and compatibility standards for in-car use. Qualified apps will be automatically opted into distribution on cars with Google built-in and made available in Android Auto. This initiative will initially focus on parked app categories such as video, gaming, and browsers, with plans to extend to other categories in the future.
Discover More In-Car Innovations
As the automotive and tech industries continue to converge, users can look forward to a future where their vehicles not only transport them but also keep them connected and entertained in new and exciting ways.
